Criminal Investigation Launched Over Alleged Embezzlement at Geumsansa Temple
The police have initiated a criminal investigation following a complaint that alleges a former chief monk of Geumsansa Temple, the head temple of the 17th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, misappropriated construction funds. This development has sparked significant concern within the religious community and among the public.
The Anti-Corruption and Economic Crime Investigation Unit of the Jeonbuk Provincial Police Agency announced on the morning of the 7th that it had conducted a search and seizure operation at Geumsansa Temple in Gimje County, Jeollabuk-do, as well as at a construction company in Gunsan. These actions mark a critical step in uncovering the alleged misconduct.
Complaint Filed by Buddhist Lay Association
Earlier, the Participatory Buddhist Lay Association Reform Center filed a complaint with the police on the 27th of last month against A, the former chief monk of Geumsansa Temple, and B, the current chief monk. According to the complaint, A is accused of monopolizing national subsidy projects worth several billion won by establishing a nominee construction company under the names of relatives and followers. The allegations suggest that during his tenure as chief monk, A created slush funds and delivered 100 million won in cash to B.
Details of the Allegations
In a statement regarding the search and seizure, the Participatory Buddhist Lay Association Reform Center highlighted that A used the names of relatives and others to effectively own and operate C Construction. This allowed him to monopolize national subsidy projects at Geumsansa Temple and its subordinate temples. The center also pointed out that specific internal reports have emerged, alleging systematic embezzlement of taxpayers’ money through unfair “price slashing” against subcontractors, false accounting such as paying salaries to “ghost employees” who did not actually work, and the creation of massive slush funds.
Testimonies and Consequences
The center further noted that testimonies have surfaced indicating that 100 million won in cash from the slush funds was delivered to B. Additionally, C Construction received a business suspension penalty after being caught in improper contracts and false settlements. The Reform Center emphasized that this is not merely accounting fraud but a serious power-based corruption crime involving the privatization of taxpayers’ money under the guise of religious authority and the maintenance of a slush fund structure within the religious order.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, the police are expected to scrutinize all evidence related to the alleged financial misconduct. The involvement of high-ranking officials within the religious order has raised questions about transparency and accountability. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for the Jogye Order and the broader Buddhist community in South Korea.
The situation underscores the importance of maintaining ethical standards within religious institutions, particularly when dealing with public funds. As more information comes to light, the public will be watching closely to see how this case unfolds and what measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.